Marin County – Termite Control

ATCO Pest Control uses a variety of advanced control methods to eradicate, trap, remove, and deter pests for residential and commercial clients in Marin, Sonoma, San Francisco, and Contra Costa Counties. The family-owned and operated company takes a preventative approach…
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What You Should Know About Termites in Marin County

Termites. That word can make any Marin County homeowner cringe because termites can cause serious damage to wooden home structures.

With at least 17 varieties of termites living in California, homeowners are in a constant battle to protect their homes from the destruction termites can cause in wood structures.

It’s important to note that not all termite infestations are bad, provided they are not in or close to our homes. Termites play a vital role in the breakdown and recycling of wood materials, and when they tunnel in the ground, they contribute to aerating the soil and adding nutrients that allow for better plant growth. The problem comes when termites decide to make their homes in and around human structures.

So how can you tell if you have a termite infestation in and around your home? It’s important to realize that not all termites invade home structures. In fact, there are four basic types of termites: dampwood, drywood, subterranean, and mound builders.

Types of Termites: What’s the Difference?
Mound building termites are most common in South America, Australia, and Africa. As their name implies, they build large mounds, either on the ground or in trees, that can reach 25 feet or higher. There are no mound-building termites in North America.

Subterranean termites are those that live underground. They require moist environments and burrow through the ground, and can cause damage to foundations wooden and structural supports, particularly if there is wood rot in the structure.

Dampwood termites are most common in cool, humid areas, particularly along the central and northern coastal regions in California, and they can be found in wood that is high in moisture, both above ground and below ground. This makes them the typical pest of beach homes; however, they may also be found in high-humidity woods and forests, and can cause damage to mountain cabins.

Drywood termites can be found in dry, undecayed wood, and have been found in human structures, trees (including orchards), utility poles, posts, and lumber used for building. They are most likely found in dryer regions of California, including deserts, but can occur in the coastal areas, as well. Drywood termites typically nest above ground.

How Do I Know If I Have a Termite Infestation and What Do I Do About It?
The first sign of a termite infestation in or around your Marin County home may come in the form of unusual insect swarms, as termites tend to swarm in fall and spring. Additionally, you may notice what appears to be tunneling in wood, and/or darkening or blistering of wood. Wood that has been damaged by termites can be thin, soft, and easily punctured by a knife or screwdriver.

Termite identification is fairly simple in that termites are often mistaken for the flying forms of ants, but tend to be larger, with some varieties being up to an inch long, and their wings, body shape and antennae are different than those of ants. Typically, termites have a wider body, their wings are different, and their antennae are not bent or jointed like an ants.

While this may help you know if you have a termite infestation, it is important to have this substantiated by a certified professional as there are other ways of determining if you have termites, as well, and a certified professional can determine the exact type of termite that has invaded your home, and prepare a treatment solution specific to that type.

Unlike other pests, a termite infestation presents a different type of challenge. Whereas many pests invading our Marin County homes are coming in to seek shelter and food that may be lying around in our home (whether that be other insects, or food crumbs that have fallen into the cracks between our stove and refrigerator), or have just wandered in through an open door or on the back of a pet, termites seek out our homes specifically as a food source and a place of shelter, and they can invade portions of the home not readily accessible by homeowners.

As a result, the knowledge needed to eliminate the problem is more specialized, as someone engaged in termite control needs to have special knowledge of building construction, as well as termite identification and biology. While a homeowner may be able to identify an infestation, it is advisable that a professional be hired to inspect and treat the home.

Before hiring a Marin County company to both inspect and treat the home; however, it’s important to realize that having the same company do both could be a conflict of interest as some companies pay on commission; therefore, someone inspecting your home may determine that you require more work than is necessary. It is advisable that you have your home inspected by someone who will not do the work, then provide a copy of the inspection to whichever company you choose to eliminate the problem.

There are many things you can do to try to prevent a termite infestation from occurring. Some of these include keeping all wooden parts of a building structure at least 12 inches above the ground; identifying and correcting any structural issues that may promote termite infestations, such as the use of stucco siding that reaches to the ground; keeping attic and foundation areas well ventilated; regular inspection of the exterior of the building, including any utility or services boxes attached to the exterior of the building; replacing wood favored by termites with wood that is more resistant to termite infestations; and placing a sand barrier around the building’s foundation.

If you are building or remodeling a home, you may want to look into your options for preventing termite infestations prior to beginning the building or remodeling project.

While prevention is always the best, once a home or structure has a termite infestation, in order to maintain the safety of the structure, the problem has to be eliminated. How do you do that?

Look for Properly Certified Termite Control Companies in Marin County
All Diamond Certified companies located in Marin County have been thoroughly researched for you, including certification verification, and reliability. If one of these companies does not appear to meet your needs, you will have to do the research yourself. Where to begin?

It’s important to note that termite control is a carefully regulated industry in California and Marin County due to the use of pesticides. Indiscriminate pesticide use can cause illness in people and animals. For this reason, it is important to ensure that your termite control technicians, applicators and supervisors are licensed and certified pursuant to state regulations. In California, the Structural Pest Control Board (“SPCB”) licenses termite control companies and provides courses and examinations towards that licensing.

There are different types of certifications and licenses, and different areas in which someone can be certified or licensed. The SPCB recognizes three branches of structural pest control: Branch 1 is the practice of using fumigation with poisonous or lethal gases to control household and wood-destroying pests; Branch 2 uses methods other than fumigation with poisonous or lethal gases; and Branch 3 uses insecticides or structural repairs and corrections, excluding fumigation with poisonous or lethal gases.

The different types of licenses issued by the SPCB are that of applicator, field representative, and operator. An applicator is someone in an entry level position, and they cannot be licensed in Branch 1. If you require someone to use fumigation techniques to eliminate a termite infestation in your home, it will be important to ensure whoever comes into your home is licensed as a field representative or operator.

In addition to the Structural Pest Control Board, other organizations may certify or license a company, including, but not limited to, the County Agricultural Commissioner, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Pesticide Regulation, and the California Department of Public Health. Additionally, many termite control companies in Marin County may hold membership in other organizations, as well. These could include National Pest Management Association and Pest Control Operators of California.

Most of the organizations that certify and license companies for termite control also maintain a database of complaints and the validity of licensing and certification, as does the Better Business Bureau. When considering termite control, remember, it is your right to ask questions, and asking for the particulars of a company’s certification and licensing is one step you can use to ensure you are working with a reputable company, and checking out a company’s reputation is the responsible thing to do before you begin working with a company.

Now that you’ve done some basic research on termite control companies in Marin County, it’s time to talk with a few local companies. When you interview them, make sure you have a written list of questions and note each company’s answers. Don’t settle for the first Marin County company you interview. You have a right to explore your options, but keep in mind that the longer you wait, the more damage termites can do to your home or building.

You are the customer. If your goal is to choose a termite control company that will deliver high customer satisfaction and quality, you’ll feel confident in choosing a Diamond Certified termite control service. Each has been rated Highest in Quality in the most accurate ratings process anywhere. And you’re always backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. Here’s why the Diamond Certified ratings and certification process will help you find a top-rated termite control company and is unparalleled in its accuracy, rigor and usefulness:

1) Accuracy: All research is performed by live telephone interviews that verify only real customers are surveyed, so you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews.

2) Statistical Reliability: A large random sample of past customers is surveyed on an ongoing basis so the research results you see truly reflect a Diamond Certified company’s top-rated status.

3) Full Disclosure: By clicking the name of a company above you’ll see the exact rating results in charts and read verbatim survey responses as well as researched articles on each qualified company.

4) Guaranteed: Your purchase is backed up with mediation and the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee, so you can choose with confidence.

Click on the name of a Diamond Certified company above to read ratings results, researched articles and verbatim customer survey responses to help you make an informed decision.

More than 200,000 customers of local companies have been interviewed in live telephone calls, and only companies that score Highest in Quality in customer satisfaction–a 90+ on a 100 scale–as well as pass all of the credential-based ratings earn Diamond Certified. By requiring such a high score to qualify, the Diamond Certified program eliminates mediocre and poorly performing companies. Read detailed information about the ratings and certification process.

DIAMOND CERTIFIED EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS IN THE Marin County – Termite Control CATEGORY

Richard Estrada is 19-year veteran of the pest control industry and owner of ATCO Pest Control, a Diamond Certified company since 2009. He can be reached at (415) 669-4994 or by email.

Richard Estrada

diamond certified contributor profile and expert article

Richard Estrada: Getting the Bugs Out

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

NOVATO – When Richard Estrada first started working in the pest control industry, he was at a crossroads: burned out, overtired and looking for change. “I was delivering produce for a company based in San Francisco, which meant a lot of very early mornings,” he recalls. “I had just become a father a couple years earlier, and I found I wasn’t able to spend as much time with my son as I wanted because I was always trying to catch up on sleep.”

Richard knew he wanted to transition to a job with regular daytime hours, but he wasn’t sure where to start looking, so when he got an invitation from a friend to try his hand in a totally new industry, he didn’t hesitate to accept. “A good friend of mine owned a pest control company, and he invited me to work with him for a day to see if it was something I’d like to do,” he explains. “As it turned out, I found it very interesting and decided to keep working for him. Sixteen years later, I’m president of ATCO Pest Control.”

Born in East Los Angeles and raised in Iowa, Richard moved to the Bay Area in 1989, where he still lives with his wife, Stella, and their two sons, Nathan and Marcus. After nearly 25 years, he says he still appreciates the natural beauty of the indigenous landscape. “We have the bay, the mountains and so much more. I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else at this point.” Richard and his family like to take advantage of all the area has to offer, engaging in a variety of outdoor activities such as biking, hiking and skiing. One pastime that Richard especially enjoys is golfing with his sons. “My boys and I go golfing quite often. It’s a great way for us to enjoy the beauty of creation and spend some time together.”

In his professional career, Richard says a crucial ingredient for success has been his personal associations. “When I went into business for myself, I knew it would be important to surround myself with people who were smarter than me when it came to business matters. Today, whether it’s industry colleagues or company employees, I continue to partner with people whom I can collaborate with and learn from.”

When asked the first thing he’d do if he could retire tomorrow, Richard says it wouldn’t be a likely scenario. “Quite honestly, I can’t see myself retiring. I enjoy what I do and love working alongside my team members. I might travel and play golf a little more often, but I could never see myself fully retired.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What were you most known for in high school?
A: My smile.

Q: Which super power would you choose, flight or invisibility?
A: Invisibility.

Q: If you were an insect, what would you be?
A: I think I would be an ant—they’re hard workers and they don’t need to be told what to do.

Q: Do you have any memorable job stories?
A: One time, I got a call about an ant problem at a client’s house. As we were in the kitchen looking at the infestation, the client brought my attention to an ant farm that was sitting on the countertop. We both had to laugh at the irony.

Q: What’s one movie that people would be surprised you’ve never seen?
A: “Arachnophobia.”

How to Prevent and Remove Rodents

by Richard Estrada, a Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

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NOVATO — When it comes to keeping your home free of pests, rodents are a primary concern. Here are a few tips on how to both prevent rodents from entering your home and remove them after the fact. Prevention The most… Read more

Expert Video Tip

Video: Keeping Rodents Out Of Your Home

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Complete Video Transcription:

NOVATO — Host, Sarah Rutan: If there are rodents disrupting your neighborhood, there are some ways you can keep rodents out of your home. Today, we’re in Novato…
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INDUSTRY INFORMATION AND RESEARCHED ARTICLES BY THE DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESOURCE

Know What You Want

What to Ask Yourself About Termite Services

Before you begin interviewing termite control companies in Marin County, ask yourself what types of services you need, and what you are looking for in a termite control company. Some questions to ask yourself are:

Do I want a Diamond Certified termite control company that is rated best in quality and backed by the Diamond Certified Guarantee?

How often do I want to have termite control in my home? Is this a one-time event, or do I want a regular visit every month, or within some other time frame?

Has my home been inspected by an independent inspector and do I have a report from them as to the extent of the damage?

Are there any chemicals I am sensitive to?

Do I want an integrated approach to my termite control problem?

Am I planning to sell my home and, if so, what do I need to do to ensure it is well protected from termites.

Am I wanting to go as natural as possible, utilizing non-chemical methods of termite control?

Do I know if my whole house needs to be treated or does it appear to be a localized infestation?

Am I looking for prevention as well as control of the current problem?

What To Ask In Person

Questions to Ask Marin County Termite Exterminators in Person

After you’ve interviewed several Marin County termite control companies by telephone, it’s time to meet with a few in person. You may do this in their offices, or they may want to come into your home to see the affected area(s). You should not feel pressured to have anyone in your home if you are not comfortable; therefore, you may want to consider meeting in their offices first and arranging a walk-through by appointment during a time when you will be home with someone. Always go with whatever is most comfortable for you.

When meeting with a termite control company in San Rafael, Novato, Mill Valley, San Anselmo, Larkspur, Corte Madera, Tiburon, Sausalito, Fairfax, Ross, Belvedere, or one of the surrounding towns in person, there are some questions you should ask regarding their services:

How soon can you start?

Is the work warranted? If so, for how long?

What does the warranty entail and is it a written warranty?

Will there be any lingering odors?

Once you start treatment, how long will it take to complete?

Do I need to move out of my home while you work?

How long will I need to stay out of the area?

Is there a drying time for any wet chemicals?

Will clean up afterwards be required? If so, am I responsible for that?

Will repeat treatments be necessary?

If the problem doesn’t go away after you have completed treatment, will I be charged for you to come back and do it again?

Will I need to wash all surfaces and dishes, etc. before using them after you have applied treatment?

Are you insured and/or bonded? (Ask to see a certificate of insurance and find out if the company carries complete insurance coverage with adequate coverage that includes an “errors and omissions” clause that covers accidents like inadvertent staining on carpets or breakage of items.)

What To Ask References

What to Ask References of Local Termite Control Companies

It’s best to choose a Diamond Certified termite control company because all certified companies have passed an in-depth ratings process that most other companies can’t pass. If you want quality from a termite control company in Marin County, you can have confidence choosing a Diamond Certified company. Diamond Certified reports are available online for all certified companies. And you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews. That’s because all research is performed in live telephone interviews of actual customers.

If you can’t find a Diamond Certified termite control company within reach, you’ll have to do some research on your own. If you do, it’s wise to call some references provided by your termite control company. Keep in mind, though, that references provided to you by the termite control company are not equal in value to the large random sample of customers surveyed during the Diamond Certified ratings process. That’s because references given to customers from companies are cherry-picked instead of randomly selected from all their customers. So the contractors will likely give you a few customers to call that they know are satisfied.

If you do call references on your own, specifically ask for a list of the company’s 10 most recent customers. This will help avoid them giving you the names of only customers they know were satisfied.

Were the employees of this termite removal company courteous and helpful?

Do you feel the price was fair for the work that was done?

Did they explain clearly what they were going to do so you could ask questions?

Were you satisfied with the work from this Marin County termite control company?

Was the termite spraying or repair work completed in a timely manner?

Did they provide you with termite control options?

Were you pleased with the work they did for you and the length of time it took to complete the work?

If you needed this type of service again, would you use this Marin County termite control company again?

Would you recommend this company to others who have experienced termite infestation issues?

Review Your Options

Hire Good Termite Control Companies in Marin County

The Diamond Certified symbol has been awarded to companies that scored Highest in Quality in an accurate ratings process.

Your choice of a termite control company in San Rafael, Novato, Mill Valley, San Anselmo, Larkspur, Corte Madera, Tiburon, Sausalito, Fairfax, Ross, Belvedere and the surrounding area will depend on your needs.

It is important to evaluate all of the information you have received after speaking with different companies and talking to references. In addition, before deciding on the best termite control company in Marin County for you, it’s important to consider the following questions:

Can a termite control company in Marin County satisfy your needs and eliminate your problem?

Is the company willing to provide follow up care for minimal or no cost, if their first treatment doesn’t work as planned?

Is the company willing to spend the time necessary to communicate with you exactly what needs to be done and how it will be done?

Is the company willing to warranty their work and guarantee your satisfaction?

Are they willing to provide you with a written contract and warranty for their work?

How To Work With

Choose Your Termite Control Company Carefully

Termite control can involve hazardous chemicals that can be harmful to you, your family, and your pets. Before you hire a termite control company, you will want to find out what safety precautions they take when working with possibly hazardous materials, and what you will need to do prior to them coming into your home, and what precautions need to be taken after they are finished.

Now That You’ve Found The Marin Termite Removal Company for YouOnce you hire a company, in San Rafael, Novato, Mill Valley, San Anselmo, Larkspur, Corte Madera, Tiburon, Sausalito, Fairfax, Ross, Belvedere, or one of the surrounding towns, it will be important to maintain contact with the termite control company to ensure everything is going according to plan and no problems have come up in the process, such as there being a larger infestation than originally thought.

When you are satisfied with the information your Marin County termite control company has given you, and you are ready to proceed, you should sign a contract that includes a warranty for the work to be done. Any changes to the contract should be completed in writing. Do not give a verbal agreement for anything without having it put into writing and signed by both you and the company. Some things to look for in a termite control contract are:

Possible exclusion clauses in the contract. Exclusion clauses specify the things that can cause the contract to be canceled.

Can either you or the termite control company cancel? Will there be penalties assessed if you cancel the contract?

Is there an arbitration clause or other method to settle possible disputes?

Be a Good Customer

How Can You Be A Good Termite Control Company Customer?

It’s the termite control company’s responsibility to put forth the best work possible, but you play a big part in the success of your termite control company, too. Here are a few simple steps you can take to be a good customer when hiring an Marin County termite control company.

Remember, a friendly smile goes a long way!

Be sure your service representative has a phone number where they can reach you at all times while they’re working. The work will move along more smoothly if your termite control company can reach you for any necessary updates, questions or work authorizations.

Be clear and upfront with the termite control company. Let them know what you want from your termite control company, the long-term outcome you’re expecting and specific ways they can satisfy your expectations.

Before you hire a termite control company in Marin County, restate your expectations and goals, and reiterate to the termite control company representative your understanding of the agreement. Most problems with local termite control companies occur because of a breakdown in communication. By being clear about your expectations and theirs, you can avoid most conflicts.

Ask your termite control company if you should call to check on the progress or if he will call you with updates.

When your contractor contacts you, return calls promptly to keep the termite control company on schedule.

Pay for the termite control company work promptly.

Why would you want to be a good customer? Termite control companies in Marin County appreciate customers who are straightforward, honest and easy to work with. Your good customer behavior sets the tone from your end and creates an environment conducive to a good

Check The Work

Check The Termite Removal and Control Services Against Your Invoice

Upon the completion of the treatment in your San Rafael, Novato, Mill Valley, San Anselmo, Larkspur, Corte Madera, Tiburon, Sausalito, Fairfax, Ross, or Belvedere home, you will want to sit down with the Marin County termite control company representative and go over the invoice and the work completed. Have the termite control worker explain clearly the work that was done, and any follow up work that needs to be done by the company or by you.

Make sure you have a clear understanding of the work that was done so that, should the problem arise again, you will be able to communicate with the company clearly regarding what has been done and what may still need to be done. Additionally, obtain an accurate list of any chemicals that were used in case you or someone in your home has a reaction to them.

Finally, review all work completed with what is on the invoice you receive from the termite control company to ensure all work being paid for was actually done, and that all work was done to your satisfaction.

Written Warranties

Get Termite Control Guarantees In Writing

When the work is completed, your Marin County termite control company is required to give you a written invoice. This should include:

The name and physical address of the company and any license or certification numbers they may have.

An itemized list of all work performed.

Any charges for special equipment utilized.

What part of the work is under warranty?

How long the warranty is valid.

If an invoice does not include this information, be sure to ask for any warranties or guarantees in writing so that you will have them if a problem arises. Note how long the warranties are, and take special note of anything that may void a warranty, such as new construction or changes to the foundation of your home. If you are planning any changes to the structure, you should discuss this with your termite control company so that preventative treatment can take place at the appropriate time during the construction.

Top 10 Requests

Termite Control Services in Marin County

Termite control services in Marin County vary, depending on the type of termites in or near your home or business, whether you have a termite infestation or simply are looking for termite prevention services, and the type of termite control you’re seeking. It’s smart to talk with your local termite inspection and control service to find out what services they offer and recommend for your particular needs.

Those listed below are some of the most commonly requested termite services in Marin County, including form companies that service San Rafael, Novato, Mill Valley, San Anselmo, Larkspur, Corte Madera, Tiburon, Sausalito, Fairfax, Ross and Belvedere and beyond.

Marin Termite ControlTermite control services are any services that seek to prevent, eradicate, and control termite infestations. Most termite control companies in Marin County serve residential and commercial clients and offer a variety of termite inspections, prevention services, fumigation and termite tenting, termite traps, and other eradication services for subterranean and wood termites of all kinds. Termite control services may also offer termite damage repairs for areas that have been compromised by termites.

Termite InspectionsTermites leave proof of their presence, including termite damage to structures and the physical existence of termites themselves. It’s important for homeowners and business owners in termite-prone areas to have annual termite inspections to look for the presence of termites or termite damage, and to provide termite prevention services. Most termite inspections include a conversation with the building’s owners or residents and a physical inspection. Physical inspections usually focus on areas of likely termite infestation, including wood areas, crawl spaces, decks and patios, and other locations. Good termite inspections come with a written report of any findings.

Termite Treatment ServicesTermite treatment services are those that inspect for termite presence or activity, assess any damage or signs of infestation, remove the termites present, prevent future infestations, and repair termite damaged areas. Termite treatment services include nationwide termite control chains and local extermination companies.

Termite PreventionEven in areas with termite activity, termite infestation doesn’t have to be a given. Many Marin County termite contractors provide prevention services that help keep termites away from homes and businesses. Routine termite inspections, assessing and eliminating problem areas and conditions such as moisture and ground-to-wood contact areas, and applying termite preventatives can all help keep termites from invading. Termite baits, termite monitoring systems, and removing potential sources of food for termites can all keep termites at bay.

Subterranean Termite ControlSubterranean termites live underground in large colonies, venturing up to find wood and cellulose material to eat. Subterranean termites create tunnels made of saliva and mud to safely reach the wood on which they dine, and then fill with mud the wood areas they’ve hollowed out in order to keep the area humid and comfortable for them. Mud tunnels on or in walls and foundations can be a sign that subterranean termites are in your home or building. Termite control companies in Marin County and beyond can control subterranean termites with a combination of preventative methods and treatment options.

Termite Fumigation and Tenting ServicesTermite infestations may require fumigation and tenting to eradicate the termites (usually drywood termite colonies). Fumigation and tenting are considered whole-structure treatments, in contrast to localized treatments such as spraying. Termite fumigation and tenting is performed by a certified professional, who covers your home or building with a tent and seals any air gaps before filling the home with a fumigant gas that eradicates termites. Structural fumigations and tenting takes 24-72 hours, and most homes are safe for reentry after six to 12 hours of treatment.

Drywood Termite ControlDrywood termites are responsible for most of the destruction of homes and buildings. These termites thrive in undecayed wood with very low moisture content, including homes and furniture. They begin their infestation by boring a hole into wood and then plugging the hole, and then they lay eggs and continue to feed on the interior wood. Small infestations of drywood termites may be treated through localized or spot treatments of the area. However, most infestations, including extensive and severe infestations, should be treated using fumigation and tenting performed by licensed professional exterminators in San Rafael, San Anselmo, Novato, Mill Valley and Larkspur or your area.

Green Termite Control in Marin CountyGreen and eco-friendly termite control is available, however, it may not be as effective as chemicals for preventing and eliminating termite infestation. Talk with your Marin County termite control company about green termite control options available to you. Maintenance and careful cleaning and monitoring of termite-prone areas is the best preventative. This includes removing moisture sources, eliminating areas where wood touches dirt, keeping wood and dry leaf detritus away from homes and other structures, and similar maintenance. Low toxicity termite treatments including orange oil and neem oil may eliminate small infestations or prevent infestations. Termite baits and bait systems can also help control termite colonies. Heat treatments, cold treatments, and electronic termite preventatives may also be effective.

Termite Bait / Termite TrapsTermite baits for drywood termites, subterranean termites, and wetwood termites can be effective at preventing and treating termite infestations. Termite baits and traps can be installed aboveground and underground, depending on the types of termites and threats near you. Termite contractors often install termite monitoring stations, bait cartridges, bait stations, and other termite control systems, depending on the risk and need of clients.

Termite Damage RepairOnce termites have made your home their own, there will be damage to repair. This will help keep your home or building safe and looking good. The first step is to ensure that the termite infestation is removed and all termites are exterminated. Your termite removal company should also help reduce the chance of reinfestation by applying preventative measures to your home or property. A thorough termite inspection should be performed to find all areas of damage. Then, termite damage repairs can begin. This often includes removing damaged wood with new wood or fortifying damaged wood areas with new wood supports. Structural damage may require repair or replacement to ceiling and floor joists, wall studs, support posts, support beams, and other areas.

Favorite Brands in the Greater Bay Area and Marin CountyMost termite control services and companies in Novato, Mill Valley, San Rafael, San Anselmo, Larkspur and Corte Madera and throughout Marin County rely on popular termite eradication brands to do the dirty work.

Termite control products you may see offered by Marin County termite services include the following:

Glossary Of Terms

Glossary of Termite Control Terms and Definitions

As every industry has its own terminology, so when meeting with representatives of local termite control companies, it is helpful to know some of the common terms used in termite extermination and their definitions.

dampwood termites
Termites that prefer wood that has a high moisture content.

drywood termites
Usually found in dry, non-decayed wood, including live trees, buildings, utility poles, etc.

hardwood
Wood from non-evergreen trees such as maple, oak, ash, etc. Some termites prefer to bore into hardwood.

Integrated Pest Management
A planned pest control program using various methods, including pesticides, structural alterations, regular inspection and monitoring, etc. to control pests, including termites.

Also known as: IPM

mound building termites
Termites that build large mounds instead of burrowing into wood or the soil. Most common in Australia, South America, and Africa.

new wood
Standing or freshly felled trees and unseasoned lumber. Some termite species prefer new wood and seek out standing trees or those that have been recently cut.

old wood
Seasoned or dried lumber. This type of wood may attract some types of termites, including drywood termites.

softwood
Wood from evergreen trees such as pines, firs, and spruces. Drywood termites often prefer this type of wood.

subterranean termites
Colonies of termites that reside underground. Can cause damage to home foundations.

swarmers
The winged forms of male and female termites that leave the colony in the spring or fall, usually in a large swarm.

Also known as: alates

swarming
When the winged forms of male and female termites leave the colony to mate and start new colonies. Swarms are often the first sign of a termite infestation.

termite bait
An attractant, usually an artificial or chemical substance that is consumed like food. Most termite baits contain a toxin that termites ingest or take back to their nests where large numbers of termites ingest the toxin.

termite shield
A barrier, usually made of a metal that does not corrode, that is placed in or on a foundation wall or at some other point in a structure to prevent termites from entering.

termiticide
Pesticide used to protect a structure against subterranean termites. Termiticide is usually sprayed by a termite extermination company. However, some termiticides are available for purchase by consumers at hardware stores or garden centers.

trenching
A method of preventing termites from entering a structure by digging a trench around the structure and treating the soil used to fill in the trench with a termiticide or other termite preventative.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ for Local Termite Prevention Companies and Exterminators

Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified termite control company?A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a local termite control company with confidence by offering a list of top-rated local companies who have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only termite control company rated Highest in Quality earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. So you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified termite control company.

Q: Why does the termite control company need to drill inside my house?
A: Drilling inside a structure allows the pest management professional to create a better barrier against termites.

Q: My neighbors have just found out they have termites. Should I have my house inspected to see if I have them, too?
A: While your risk is higher if your neighbor has termites, it does not mean you will have them; however, having your home inspected is the first step to peace of mind. If you do not have termites, you can then meet with a company to determine the best way to prevent termites from invading your home.

Q: Can I try to get rid of termites myself?
A: Yes, but obtaining the chemicals and proper equipment can be difficult, expensive, and time consuming. Additionally, professional termite control specialists have access to termiticides and equipment not available to the average person, which may be more effective. You should also consider that, because chemicals can be harmful, if you are not familiar with how best to use the chemicals in a safe manner, it is best to let the professionals handle them.

Q: We had our house treated a couple of years ago, so why do we have termites again?
A: Check your treatment warranty to determine how long the treatment should last. If you are still within that time frame, try to determine if something happened that may have opened up a path for the termites to get into your home. New construction, the removal of soil, or changes to your foundation can cause barriers to open up and termites to invade.

Q: Help! I have termites in my home. What do I do?
A: Don’t panic. While termites can do severe damage to a structure, it usually takes a while. If your home was previously treated for termites, see if you are still within the warranty for the treatment and proceed from there by contacting the company that first treated your home. If your home has never been treated, it’s time to seek out help.

Q: Does mulch attract termites?
A: Any type of cellulose can attract termites. Damp conditions under layers of mulch are ideal habitat for termites. Landscape mulch should be used sparingly and care should be taken not to place mulch against wood siding, window sills or door thresholds.

Q: Many stores sell bait stations for termites. Do they work?
A: They do kill termites, but they need to be maintained, and it may take quite a few of them to do the job. Talk with a termite control company about whether your termite infestation is small enough to effectively be controlled by a bait station, or whether you need termite tenting or extermination services.